Club empowers radio amateurs

THE Highway Amateur Radio Club held its swop shop/boot sales at the New Germany Nature Reserve on Saturday. The club was formed in June 1996 following the disbanding of the branches of the South African Radio League to allow for the formation of independent clubs.

Amateur radio (also called ham radio) is the use of designated radio frequency spectra for purposes of private recreation, non-commercial exchange of messages, wireless experimentation, self-training, and emergency communication.

The term “amateur” is used to specify persons interested in radio technique solely with a personal aim and without direct monetary or other similar reward, and to differentiate it from commercial broadcasting, public safety (such as police and fire), or professional two-way radio services (such as maritime, aviation.).

Vice chairman of the club, Max Rossi, said the aim of the club was to further the interests of its members in all aspects of amateur radio and electronics.

“The club also fosters goodwill between radio amateurs and promotes amateur radio as a hobby and offers backup communications in emergencies and during disasters.

“Membership shall be open, subject to the discretion of the committee, to all persons interested in the aim of the club,” said Rossi.

The club holds its monthly meetings on the third Tuesday of the month at 7pm for 7.30pm at the Lahee Park Bowling Club.

The swop shop/boot sales are held at the New Germany Nature Reserve on the last Saturday each month.

People who want to join the club can complete an online membership application at https://harc.org.za.